Brian, great looking pictures! I had to ask myself if maybe the house was on fire at first! LOL
Adriatic, come to find out it was a huge piece of rope that he ate! when we got it, it was about the size of a big pill bottle and about 4" long! I too am also happy you met up with your friend and you will have time to run trains! I bet you will have a great time, just like 2 little kids in a candy store!
Matt, very nice looking layout! quite the curve for those long cars, I sure am glad they work well!